This morning, the LPC voted unanimously to designate the city’s newest Historic District and its newest Individual Landmark. The latter designation, of the Stonewall Inn, marks a historic moment for the Commission, as the building is already protected as part of the Greenwich Village Historic District and its significance derives entirely from its historical, social and cultural importance, rather than architectural. The site is the location of the Stonewall riots of June 1969, an event that sparked the LGBT Pride Movement in the city, state, nation and the world. Communities have commemorated the Stonewall riots ever since by observing LGBT Pride Month in June.

A wide array of elected officials, preservation organizations, historians, community members and participants in the 1969 riots gave testimony in support of the designation. Many spoke of the importance of the site as vital to the city’s heritage and the designation as a major step forward in officially recognizing New York City’s role in the LGBT movement. Some called for the designation of more sites of significance to the LGBT community, while others, including HDC, applauded the designation of a site of principally cultural significance, something the LPC has been hesitant to do in the past. HDC was heartened to hear several comments from the Commissioners themselves regarding the protection of cultural touchstones in our city.